I believe that children learn in the most effective way when they are enthusiastic about what they are learning. I want my students to look forward to coming to my lessons and feel confident asking questions. I want to ensure the children are encouraged to explore their interests and not feel like they have to learn. They will feel excited to learn because they will feel like they are going on an adventure. To be creative with my students, I will ensure that the lessons are interactive andhands-onn. This means I won’t have the children sitting down at their desks all the time but will allow them to learn through doing. For maths, I will provide building blocks, games and everyday items so they can understand numbers and problem-solving. In science, I will plan simple experiments to allow them to make predictions. I want the children to relate what they are learning to the real world. Using stories, art and creativity can help to make children excited to learn. I would love to use books, creative writing activities, art,s and role play to help the children understand different subjects. Children have incredible imaginations, ns and as teachers, ers we should encourage this. Making simple changes such as turning history into a play within the classroom or letting the children write their own story can make the lesson more memorable. I want my students to realise that they don’t just learn from textbooks and worksheets. From my experience working in childcare at KidsCo, I have learnt how essential it is to keep children engaged. Every child has a different personality, learning style and interests. Some children learn better by watching,g whilst others learn by touching, building, moving, or listening. I want to use different teaching styles to ensure that all my students have a chance to succeed. I also want to get to know my students as individuals so I can relate the lessons to things they enjoy. An important aspect of my teaching style will be creating a classroom where the children aren’t scared to make mistakes. I want the children to realise that mistakes are part of learning. I will encourage them to ask questions, try new things, and persevere. I know how much encouragement from a teacher can impact a child’s confidence, and I want my students to feel the same way I did. I want to encourage them to believe in their abilities. Most importantly, I want my students to leave my classroom feeling like they have learnt something new and achieved something they can be proud of. I hope to inspire them to be curious, creative and confident. Being a teacher isn’t just about helping children pass their tests but helping them fall in love with learning. I want to show them that there is always something new to learn.

I have faced difficulties throughout my life which have helped shape me into the person I am today and the person I wish to become. From a young age, I have learnt that everyone has their own story. I have learnt the importance of being patient, caring, and empathetic, especially when working with children. I have always wanted to make a difference,e and as I have grown older, er I have realised that I want to do this by becoming an elementary school teacher. I have always been interested in becoming a teacher due to my experiences as a student and working within childcare. Throughout my education, I have had amazing teachers who have made a lasting impact on my life. One particular teacher (Ms Curtis) saw my potential and encouraged me to push myself. She helped me to gain my confidence within my education and provided me with a safe space to go to when things were difficult outside of school. She taught me that being a teacher isn’t just about teaching but can also be about being someone the student can rely on. I would like to be this person for my future students. My experience within childcare has confirmed that I want to become a teacher. As a childcare aide at KidsCo, I have had the opportunity to work with children and help them learn. I love seeing children learn new things, gain their confidence, and get excited about learning. I have learnt that every child learns differently and sometimes the little things can make the biggest difference. I would like to create an environment where children feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and being themselves. My education will help me achieve this. I would like to complete a bachelor’s degree in education to continue building my knowledge and skills to become an effective teacher. I will learn about child development, managing a classroom, planning lessons, and supporting children with different learning needs. I would also like to learn how to create an inclusive classroom for all backgrounds. I know that to become a good teacher,r you need to be dedicated, patient,nt and committed to continuing your learning. One of my main goals is to ensure my future students never feel like they are struggling on their own. I know how it feels to struggle and need someone who understands. I want to remind children that their situation does not define their future and that they are capable of achieving things they may not think they can. Even if I can make a difference to one student's life, I will feel like I have made a difference. I would also like to use my career to help and empower other women. I want young girls to grow up knowing that they deserve opportunities, their voice matters, and they should never feel restricted. I hope to inspire my female students to be confident, independent,t and not afraid to do what they are interested in. I would also like to support other women getting into education by encouraging them, celebrating their achievements, ts and creating an environment where women can help each other rather than compete. Overall, I would like to become the type of teacher I needed when I was younger. I want to create an environment where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. My education is the first big step toward this,s and I am determined to make the most of the opportunities I am given. I hope to use my career to remind children that they are capable of more than they think.

I really enjoy math because it is one of the few subjects where I have always found it to make sense. With numbers, I feel like I can understand things better than words because you can often clearly see what the answers are and how to get there. It also provides me with a feeling of relaxation because I know that with any problems that may be difficult, I can take my time and work through them to find the answer. Math is challenging, so I enjoy it. I like being able to look at the questions and identify what is being asked and then work towards solving it. It is also rewarding to understand problems that initially confused me. I have become more patient by doing math and have learned that it's okay to make mistakes. My teachers have acknowledged my math ability and have encouraged me to push myself further. This has given me more confidence in my abilities. Overall, math is a subject that makes me feel competent and confident. I love knowing there is always something new to learn and a new problem to solve. I have developed a connection with math throughout my education, and it is one of the reasons why I have always believed in the importance of finding something you really enjoy learning about.

The Fate I Must Take: A Story About Courage and Friendship Once, in a world hidden from ordinary people,e there existed a small sanctuary called Whirlwind. That sanctuary was a forest clearing where gods, fairies, elves, giants, ts and other mythical creatures lived together. In the heart of the forest stood a blue ballroom where four children of the gods often gathered with their closest friends. Among those children was Aqua, daughter of Poseidon, the god of the ocean. She had always been different from the others. Aqua was quiet but strong. She had a special connection to the water. On her birthday, Aqua was supposed to receive full powers and begin a journey toward becoming the next goddess of the sea. Everyone was excited for Aqua's big day. Aqua's best friend Clara, daughter of Athena, had spent weeks helping prepare for the celebration. Lux, son of Zeus,s and the rest of their friends had gathered to celebrate as the clock struck midnight. I felt the excitement in the air as everyone gathered. "How do you feel?" Clara asked. "Do you feel any different?" Aqua looked down at her hands. Smiled. "Honestly, no. I feel the same." Everyone. The celebration continued. The following morning, something strange happened. Aqua began feeling like someone was watching her everywhere she went. Aqua felt eyes following her from the shadows. At first, she ignored it. Then Aqua became frightened. She started snapping at friends and spending time alone. Aqua was convinced that staying away from everyone would keep her friends safe. One morning, Aqua decided to go for a run in the forest to clear her head of it all. As she ran deeper between trees, she saw a glowing portal. The portal looked like an entrance to another world. Aqua knew she should turn around. Curiosity got the better of Aqua. Before Aqua could take another step, a dark figure appeared from behind the trees. Aqua tried to run. A bright flash of light surrounded Aqua. Everything went black. When Aqua opened her eyes, she lay in a room full of soft blue light. Through a window, she could see an endless ocean. It took her a moment to recognize the family crest hanging above the doorway. Aqua was in the Hall of the Gods. She immediately began to panic; she missed friends, home,e and everything familiar. Aqua was supposed to be excited about becoming a goddess; that's what this meant: being here now. Now Aqua was terrified. Suddenly, a gentle voice spoke behind Aqua "Being afraid does not mean you are not ready." Aqua turned around. Saw an old sea spirit standing near the doorway. "But I do not want to leave friends," Aqua spoke just above a whisper. "What if I cannot do this? What if I am not strong enough?" The sea spirit smiled. "You, child, have spent a lot of time worrying about what you might lose that you have forgotten what you already have. Courage is not about never being afraid. Courage is about choosing to keep going, child” Aqua thought about Clara, Lux, and all the people she had pushed away. She realized that she had been so afraid of what might happen that she had forgotten to let people who loved her help. For a time, she raised her hands toward the ocean, outside the window. A small wave rose from the water, glowing beneath the sunlight. She smiled as she realized her powers were not something she had to fear. Powers were something she could learn to understand. She knew her journey would not be easy, and Aqua missed her friends. Aqua also knew that being brave did not mean having all the answers. So began the story of Aqua, the young goddess of the sea who learned that even the strongest waves begin as little ripples. The End. Why I Chose This Message and How Storytelling Impacts Children Honestly, when I started writing this, I knew I wanted to focus on big, real themes like courage, resilience, and friendship because those are huge lessons that kids really need to hear early on. My very first draft centered on a girl who was completely terrified of her future. She was facing all these massive life shifts and had zero clue how to navigate them without falling apart. I really fought to keep that core idea in the story because, let's be real, growing up is terrifying. Everything around you changes so fast, and the absolute worst part is the uncertainty of not knowing what to expect next or who you're even supposed to be. Through Aqua, I want kids to realize that feeling scared doesn't mean you’re weak or broken. Wanting help isn't a failure, and reaching out to someone is never something you should feel embarrassed about. I also really wanted to emphasize how crucial genuine friendship is, especially when your whole world feels like it's spinning out of control. When people get overwhelmed or scared, their immediate reflex is usually to isolate themselves and push away the exact people who care about them most. Aqua goes through that exact struggle, but she has to learn the hard way that she doesn't have to carry every heavy burden by herself. I think it’s so important for kids to understand that opening up about their feelings is totally valid, and letting other people carry some of that weight with you is actually a strength, not a weakness. Storytelling has such a massive, lasting impact on younger audiences because it translates heavy, abstract life lessons into relatable characters and scenarios they actually care about. Fantasy as a genre is especially incredible for this because it gives kids total permission to tap into their imaginations and think beyond their everyday routines. By filling Aqua's universe with powerful gods, magical creatures, hidden ancient forests, and sprawling underwater kingdoms, I wanted to build a world that makes kids genuinely curious and keeps them hooked from the very first page. At the end of the day, I want kids to take away one thing when they close the book: you don't have to be completely fearless to be brave. Real courage isn't about feeling zero fear; it's about how you move forward even when you're terrified. Everyone makes mistakes, goes through phases of uncertainty, and hits major obstacles. What actually matters is learning from those moments, letting them shape you, and continuing to grow. My biggest hope is that Aqua’s journey inspires kids to trust themselves, stay curious about the world, and realize they’re so much stronger than they give themselves credit for.

I am pursuing a job in Elementary Education because I hope to make a difference and be a remodel within a kid's life's . During the early years of Elementary school, children learn the most important lessons of their lives. They learn how to form relationships, understand their feelings, become confident, and understand their capabilities. I would like to be a teacher who helps support children through these experiences and ensures they know they can rely on me and feel valued. My passion for teaching comes from my experiences working within childcare. I have worked as an After School Childcare Aide at Kisco, which has helped me work with children, understand their individual personalities, and understand how important it is to provide a safe environment. I love seeing children learn new things, overcome obstacles, and become more confident. Small things like helping a child understand something they were struggling with or seeing their face light up whilst doing an activity makes me realize why I love working with children. From working within childcare, I have learned that every child is different. Some will pick things up quickly, while others will take longer and need more time or explanations. I want to be a teacher who understands this. Another reason I want to be a teacher is that I know how much of an impact a teacher can have on their students. I had a teacher in school called Ms. Curtis who made a difference to me. She knew my strengths, particularly in math, and understood that I needed to be challenged to keep me engaged. She helped me to improve and made me fall back in love with school. She provided a place for me when things were not going well outside of school. She taught me that being a great teacher is not about the content you teach but also the relationships you form and ensuring the students know they are cared about. I would like to be this type of person for my future students. I know that not all children will have an enjoyable time at home or in their personal lives, so sometimes a teacher can make their day better. I would like my classroom to be a place where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, expressing themselves, and being themselves. I aim to obtain my bachelor's degree in Primary Education and become a teacher who can make a long-term difference. I know there will be challenges to overcome, but I am willing to learn, develop, and work hard to become a great educator. Whilst I might not be able to change every child's life, I hope that every student who enters my classroom knows they are capable, valued, and believed in. This is what makes teaching such a meaningful career.

My background and experiences have played a role in shaping my decision to pursue a career in K-12 education. Growing up, I experienced challenges that affected my confidence, mental health, and education. There were times when school felt overwhelming, participating in activities was difficult, and even completing everyday tasks took more effort than people realized. During those years, having someone who understood me, encouraged me, and made me feel comfortable at school meant more than I can explain. Those experiences helped me realize how important teachers are in a child's life, both inside and outside the classroom. One teacher who had a particularly strong impact on me was Ms. Curtis. She recognized my abilities, especially in math, and understood that I needed to be challenged to stay interested in learning. More importantly, she provided a safe and welcoming environment when things in my personal life were difficult. She allowed me to spend time in her classroom during lunch when I needed a quiet place. Her kindness helped me fall back in love with school and showed me that teachers do much more than teach lessons. Sometimes, they become the people students depend on when life outside of school is difficult. She inspired me to become that kind of person for someone else. My experiences growing up have also taught me responsibility, patience, and independence. Coming from a family with financial struggles, I started working while I was still in high school. I helped my dad with household bills by giving him half of my paycheck while also paying for my own school expenses. Balancing work, school, and personal responsibilities was not always easy, but it taught me determination and helped me understand that every student has circumstances outside of school that may affect their ability to learn. My interest in education has grown even more through my work as a childcare aide at KidsCo Brook Grove. Working in an after-school childcare setting has allowed me to build relationships with children and become part of their daily routines. I have learned that working with children requires patience, flexibility, and understanding because every child has a different personality, needs, and way of communicating. I enjoy being someone children can come to, helping create a positive environment, and seeing the excitement they have when they get to participate in activities and spend time with their friends. This job has helped me understand that even the smaller interactions we have with children can make a difference. Sometimes, simply listening to a child, encouraging them, or making them feel included can change their day. Working in childcare has also helped me see education from the perspective of someone who is actively helping children grow. It has made me more confident in my ability to work with children and has confirmed that this is the career I want to pursue. I no longer see teaching as just a job where someone stands in front of a classroom and gives lessons. I see it as an opportunity to build relationships, encourage independence, support different learning styles, and help children develop confidence in themselves. My goal is to become an elementary school teacher who creates a classroom where every child feels safe, included, and valued. I want to support children who may be struggling academically, emotionally, or at home because I understand how much of a difference having a supportive adult can make. Ultimately, I am pursuing K-12 education because I want to give children the same encouragement and support that helped me find my own potential.

My educational goal is to earn my bachelor's degree in education and become an elementary school teacher. I have always believed that education is about more than just learning subjects like math, reading, and science. School is also a place where children learn about themselves, build relationships, discover their interests, and develop confidence. I want to be a teacher who helps students grow both academically and personally. My goal is to create a classroom where every child feels safe, included, and supported, regardless of their background or the challenges they may face outside of school. My decision to pursue education is strongly connected to my own experiences as a student. Growing up, I struggled with my mental health, bullying, and feeling like I did not always fit in. Because of these experiences, I understand how much a student's environment can affect their ability to learn and feel comfortable at school. I also know how meaningful it can be when a teacher takes the time to recognize a student's potential and make them feel valued. I have had teachers who encouraged me when I needed it most, and I hope to provide that same support to my future students. I want to be the teacher who notices when a child is having a difficult day, encourages them when they doubt themselves, and reminds them that their differences are something to be proud of. My experience working in childcare has also helped me prepare for this career. Working with children has taught me patience, responsibility, creativity, and the importance of understanding that every child learns differently. It has made me even more certain that education is the career I want to pursue. I plan to continue my education, gain more experience working with children, and learn different teaching strategies so I can become the best educator possible. Receiving this scholarship would make a meaningful difference in helping me reach these goals. Paying for college is a financial challenge for my family, and I know that earning my degree will require a lot of hard work and sacrifice. I have worked while attending school and understand the importance of being responsible for my own expenses. My family has other financial responsibilities, and I do not expect them to be able to cover the cost of my higher education. This scholarship would help reduce the financial pressure of tuition, textbooks, supplies, and other college expenses. More importantly, this scholarship would allow me to focus more of my time and energy on my education instead of constantly worrying about how I will afford it. It would bring me one step closer to earning my degree and starting the career I have worked toward. I do not see college as just a way to earn a diploma. I see it as an opportunity to build a future where I can give back to my community and make a difference in children's lives. I hope that one day I can look at my classroom and know that I helped create a place where students feel accepted, encouraged, and excited to learn. This scholarship would not only support my education but also help me work toward becoming the kind of teacher every child deserves.

I want to be honest about my experiences with mental illness because it has been a major part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have struggled with clinical depression since I was five years old, and I have seen a therapist once a week, every week, to help me work through what I have experienced. Growing up, I dealt with a difficult home life, bullying, and feelings of loneliness that made childhood harder than it should have been. While many children do not have to think about their mental health until middle school or later, I was dealing with these struggles before I even fully understood what depression was. Depression has affected almost every part of my life. It is not always something that people can see, and sometimes it is difficult to explain to someone who has never experienced it. There are still mornings when getting out of bed feels like the hardest thing in the world. Even completing small everyday tasks or simply functioning can take more energy than people realize. Sometimes, things that seem easy for everyone else require a lot of effort from me. Over the years, I have had to learn how to keep going even on days when I feel like I have nothing left to give. My experiences with bullying also had a major impact on my mental health. During elementary school, I was bullied because I was a girl who liked having short hair and because I was one of the only mixed-race children attending a predominantly white school. Instead of feeling accepted for who I was, I often felt like I was being punished for being different. The bullying became so severe that it pushed me to a point where I struggled with suicidal thoughts at a very young age. No child should have to experience that, especially during a time when they should be focused on learning, making friends, and enjoying being a kid. Having a therapist has been an important part of my life. Going every week since I was five has taught me that asking for help is not something to be ashamed of. It has also helped me understand that healing is not always a straight line. There are good days and bad days, and sometimes progress means simply getting through the day. Although I would never say that I am grateful for the things I experienced, they have shaped the person I am today. They have made me more understanding of people who may be struggling silently. I know what it feels like to feel different, unwanted, or misunderstood, and I never want someone else to feel that way because of me. My experiences have taught me the importance of kindness, patience, and making others feel accepted. I hope to use what I have learned throughout my life to make a positive difference, especially in the lives of children. I want to help create environments where children feel safe, included, and comfortable being themselves. No child should have to spend their childhood feeling like there is something wrong with them simply because they are different. If sharing my story helps even one person feel less alone or encourages someone to ask for help, then I believe it is worth sharing.

I am a hardworking and determined college student who has faced challenges that have taught me the importance of perseverance, kindness, and understanding. Growing up, I learned that life does not always go as planned and that reaching my goals takes patience and dedication. Coming from a family where money can be tight, I learned the value of hard work and responsibility at a young age. I have balanced school, work, and personal responsibilities while trying to build a better future for myself. These experiences have shaped who I am and taught me to appreciate opportunities that come my way. They have also helped me understand that everyone has their own struggles, even when they are not visible to others. I plan to make a positive impact on the world through my career in education. My goal is to become an elementary school teacher because I want to help children learn, grow, and become confident in themselves. I believe education is about more than just teaching subjects like reading, writing, and math. It is also about helping children develop important life skills, discover their strengths, and feel supported as they figure out who they are. I want to create a classroom where every student feels welcomed, respected, and comfortable being themselves. One of the biggest reasons I want to become a teacher is because of the teachers who have made a difference in my own life. I have experienced what it feels like to have someone believe in me, encourage me, and recognize my potential. Having a teacher who understands that students learn differently and may be dealing with things outside of school can make a huge difference. I hope to be that kind of teacher for my future students. I want my classroom to be a safe place where children are not afraid to ask questions, make mistakes, or try something new. My experience working in childcare has also strengthened my interest in teaching. Working with children has taught me patience, responsibility, creativity, and the importance of understanding that every child is different. It has shown me how meaningful even small moments can be, whether it is helping a child understand something new, making them smile, or encouraging them when they feel frustrated. In the future, I hope to use my education and experiences to become a teacher who makes a lasting difference. I understand that I will not be able to solve every problem my students face, but I can make sure they have someone in their corner who believes in them. I want to help children recognize their potential and understand that their circumstances do not determine their future. I may not change the entire world, but if I can positively change the life of even one student, I will know that my work has mattered. To me, making a difference starts with helping the next generation feel valued, capable, and excited about their future.

I am keen to pursue a career in teaching due to my experience working with children. Originally, I was going to pursue being an accountant; however, after working in after-school care for three years, I realized that my passion was elsewhere. Working with children, helping them learn new things, and watching them thrive has made me realize how rewarding an educator can be. To make a positive impact on children like some of my teachers have done, I decided to switch my major to Elementary Education. Through working in after-school care, I have learned that being a teacher involves much more than helping your students with their work. Children need someone who is patient, positive, and will listen to them. Every child learns differently and sometimes needs someone to believe in them to help them believe in themselves. I have learned the importance of creating a positive environment where children feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and being themselves. This has made me excited to become an elementary school teacher. One teacher who made a significant impact on me was my math teacher, Ms. Curtis. She saw something in me that I did not always see in myself. She recognized how quick I was at picking up concepts in math and ensured that I was challenged. She helped me realize my strengths and that I was capable of more than I gave myself credit for. Because of her, I started to enjoy school again and found a subject that I felt confident in. Outside of academics, she made a difference in my life. When things were tough at home, she always made sure I had somewhere to go. She let me sit in her classroom during lunchtime, so I had somewhere to go to be quiet. Whilst this may seem like a small thing to her, it really meant a lot to me. She created a safe, positive, and understanding environment for me. As I am working towards my degree in Elementary Education at Montgomery Community College, I hope to bring the same qualities Ms. Curtis had in my classroom. I want to be a teacher that recognizes everyone’s strengths, encourages them to challenge themselves, and understands that sometimes students need more than academic support. From growing up, I learnt that a teacher could become a key part of encouragement and stability within a child’s life. I want to be that person for my future students. I aim to not only teach children but to help them feel confident in themselves and excited for their future. If I can make just one student feel as supported and understood as I felt with Ms. Curtis, then I know I have chosen the right career path.

A song by Olivia Rodrigo that relates to my journey is " Making the Bed." This song talks about struggling with growing up, dealing with tough situations, and taking responsibility for your life and future. I can relate to these feelings as my journey has been tough, but the struggles have helped me become the person I am today. Growing up in a one-parent household, I learnt that life was going to be challenging and required hard work and sacrifice at an early age. Seeing my dad work hard to provide for our family inspired me to be independent and work towards my future. I have had to juggle school, work, and personal commitments whilst thinking about how I will fund my college and achieve my career goals. At times, I have felt overwhelmed. One of the biggest changes in my life was discovering that the career I wanted to pursue was not what I wanted. Originally, I wanted to be an accountant, but after working in after-school care for 3 years, I found my passion for working with children. This inspired me to change my major to Elementary Education so I could do something I am happy with. Although it was scary to change my plans, I learnt that it was okay to change my path. Overall, I see my journey as challenging, but those challenges have helped me grow as a person and opened doors to opportunities I never expected. I have learned to be grateful for how far I have come instead of focusing on the things I still have yet to accomplish. Growing up in a single-parent household has taught me to be understanding, patient, and appreciative of the sacrifices people make for the ones they love. I want to use everything I have learned from my own experiences to become a teacher who understands that every child has their own story and may be going through struggles that others cannot see. I know that not every student has the same support or opportunities outside of school, and I want my classroom to be a place where every child feels safe, accepted, and encouraged. I hope to be a teacher who looks beyond a student's grades or behavior and takes the time to understand what they might be going through. Most importantly, I want my students to know that their circumstances do not determine what they can accomplish and that they always have someone who believes in them. As with the message from Olivia Rodrigo’s music, I am still figuring things out but am proud of how far I have come. I aim to create a future where I can provide for myself, make my family proud, and make a real difference in the children’s lives I teach.

My name is Egypt Baig. I am an Elementary Education major at Montgomery Community College. Being raised in a single-parent household taught me the value of challenging work, accountability, and perseverance. My father has been my biggest supporter, and watching him work so hard to provide for our family has inspired me to aim for a better future. With little money to spare and siblings looking to further their education, I have learned that reaching my goals will take determination and sacrifice Originally, I wanted to be an accountant; however, after working in an after-school program for 3 years, I have changed my career goals. I have realized how much I enjoy teaching, supporting, and watching the children grow. It has shown me how important it is to have someone who believes in children and motivates them. I am currently working towards my goals by furthering my education at Montgomery Community College. I am also gaining real-life experience by working with children. Although it has not always been easy to balance my time between work, school, and personal life, it has taught me to stay focused. In the future, I would like to become an elementary school teacher where I can create a positive environment for children. I would like to use my experiences to understand the students who may come from tough financial backgrounds or difficult home lives. I would like to be a teacher who makes a difference outside of the classroom and reminds the children that their situation does not determine their future.

I am passionate about carpentry because it is something that has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. For the last two years, I have attended the carpentry program at Thomas Edison High School of Technology, where I earned my NCCER Level One and Level Two certifications. My dad is a carpenter, and when I was younger, he used to take me to job sites with him. Watching him work made me fall in love with the trade and inspired me to pursue it myself. I enjoy working with my hands, staying active, and seeing a project come together from start to finish. There is something rewarding about building something that people can actually use and appreciate. Carpentry has also taught me patience, teamwork, responsibility, and problem solving skills that I know will help me throughout my future career. After completing my trade education, my long term goal is to become a project manager. I plan to attend Montgomery College for two years while living at home to save money, and FAFSA will help cover most of my expenses. After that, I plan to transfer to Frostburg State University to earn my bachelor’s degree because they offer strong financial aid opportunities. While attending school, I also plan to continue working in carpentry since I will graduate from Thomas Edison double certified in the trade. Before deciding on project management, I considered going fully into carpentry or even accounting because I have always enjoyed math and organization. In the end, project management felt like the perfect fit for me because it combines leadership, planning, organization, and hands on experience. I like being able to organize projects, solve problems, and work with a team to make things successful. One adversity I have faced in my life has been being a female in carpentry. Since carpentry is a male dominated trade, there were times when people doubted my abilities before even seeing what I could do. Sometimes classmates or others would offer help when I did not need it, or they would look surprised when I could complete the same work as everyone else. There were also moments when I felt underestimated just because I was a girl. Instead of letting that discourage me, I worked harder to prove myself through my actions. I stayed focused, continued learning, and showed that I was just as capable as anyone else in the shop. Over time, I gained confidence in myself and earned the respect of the people around me. That experience taught me to never let stereotypes define what I can accomplish and to always keep pushing forward no matter what challenges I face.

What motivates me to pursue a career in the trades? I've loved working with my hands most of my life. It all started with my carpenter father—he's been my biggest role model from the beginning. When he asked me to start helping with side jobs at thirteen, how could I say no? Soon, every Saturday, I went to jobs with him, learning the basics of framing and finishing work. That time, just him and me, was special in our big family, and I found real joy in it. So when it came time to start thinking about the future and what I would do as a career, I saw one choice: carpentry. I applied for Thomas Edison High School of Technology, a mini trade school for high school kids, and got accepted to their carpentry program, which started my junior year of high school. I didn't know how hands-on it would be till I got there. Through my Edison career, we built a house. YA 44 student built a house, to be exact, all of my best memories happened on that job site and I learned so much from it, starting as just a carpenter and becoming a crew lead my senior year, being in charge of a group of juniors and senior carpenters gave me not only joy but purpose to strengthen the love I had for the trade I started thinking about specifics to my career and further that's when a teacher brought up construction management degrees, it would help me get a foot in for project major which would allow me to help people do something I love and allow me to still pursue a construction-related field without my mom losing it about me not going to college. But here's the thing, college is expensive even doing the 2 years at community costs ten thousand dollars per year so any small bit helps i have continued to work monday through friday and almost my entire paycheck goes to college saving loans aren't a option since i dont want a crippling debt for the rest of my life and my parents cant help much due to both my sisters being in university for bachelors degrees and my brothers soccer expense plus bills and they want to move in the next 2 years but i refuse to let any of that stop my from pursuing a career in what i love and what will be able to financially sustain me for my life.

Growing up in a lower-income family had taught me early on that sometimes helping others doesn’t look the way most people expect. When people think about helping someone in need, they often imagine volunteering for strangers or doing community service. For me, helping someone meant supporting someone close to home, like my little brother. When he first became interested in sports, my younger brother was only eight years old. For a short time, my family was able to put him in a soccer program because he received a scholarship. He loved the sport and looked forward to every practice, especially the social aspect. However, in 2022, my parents lost the scholarship, and suddenly, he couldn’t play anymore. That same year, I started working my first job. At the time, my plan was very simple: save up money so I could buy my own car when my sophomore year came around. Things changed one night when my brother, who was thirteen at the time, came into my room crying. It honestly broke my heart. He told me that all of his friends were still playing soccer and hanging out at practice, while he had to stay home. Seeing how upset he was reminded me of how it felt when I had to give up something I loved. In that moment, I realized that helping him was more important than buying a car. From then on, I set a new goal. Every paycheck I earned went straight into my savings, but no longer for a car. Instead, I saved money so my brother could return to his soccer team. When the winter indoor season started, I went to my parents and explained that I wanted to pay for it myself. They had not wanted me to spend my money, but after some convincing, I signed him up for the team, paid the registration fees, and kept saving so he could continue playing. By 2024, my brother had qualified for the scholarship again. Knowing that he could return to the sport he loved meant everything to me. I’m proud I was able to help him when he needed it most. Helping my brother taught me that making sacrifices for the people you care about is one of the most meaningful ways to help others. I may not have bought the car I originally planned for, but seeing my brother happy on the soccer field was worth far more.

I'm going into finance and accounting because it's a career where logic, structure, order, and clarity are key, and numbers are the only things that make sense to my brain. There is always a right and wrong answer, and that clarity brings me a sense of comfort and control. Accounting offers stability and reliability, which is very important to me due to my upbringing. I grew up with not much money and way too many people in one house, making it hard to study. There was always lots of noise, pulse, I come from a big family, so there was an extended family over constantly. Growing up in a house where finances were never stable, dad being the sole provider, being a single parent, well, making sure his kids had all he could give. There were 6 people in a 3-bedroom townhouse, but at least there was a roof over our heads. The only thing in school that made sense was math. It was a significant factor in choosing my career that I could work with numbers and provide for myself financially. I was the go-to for my siblings and cousins for any math work. Due to constantly helping with math ,I got really interested in it which is what accounting and finance offer. I chose to get higher education so I can make a better life than I had growing up, and hopefully one day help my dad with his finances and give him a better, calmer life. I also give credit to my sister, my older sister made the biggest impact on my life, with my mom not being present due to her mental health and her and my dad's divorce, and my dad working 24/7. She was one of the only consistent role models I have. She showed me how the world works and never sugarcoated it. She's the reason I read about politics and became self-educated on staying informed. I aspired to be like her in school, keeping my grades up and mimicking her work ethic. She never stopped pushing me to be better and dream bigger. She is the reason I am the person I am today, and a big reason I pursue further education. We don't have much money, so this scholarship would truly be a big help. I wanna grow up to be as hard working as the people i grew up watching.

Growing up as an LGBTQ+ individual has shaped my identity in ways that are both painful and empowering. Coming out as bisexual was not a single moment, but a series of realizations followed by consequences I was not prepared for. Members of my extended family stopped speaking to me altogether, choosing distance over understanding. Words meant to dismiss my identity, calling it “just a phase,” came from people I loved, including my own sister. That rejection left lasting scars, and for a long time, it made me question my worth and whether I truly belonged anywhere. Although some family members eventually came around, the relationships were never fully repaired. Even now, there is an emotional distance that remains. Learning to live with that reality forced me to mature quickly. I had to build my own sense of belonging and find strength within myself when the support I expected from family was no longer there. Being LGBTQ+ taught me resilience, self-advocacy, and empathy for others who feel unseen or unheard. One of the hardest realities I face is that I will receive no financial support from my parents for my education. This is not only a financial burden, but an emotional one—knowing that I must navigate higher education completely on my own. Despite this, I refuse to let rejection define my future. Instead, it fuels my determination to succeed and create change. My aspiration for higher education is not only to earn a degree, but to gain the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and support marginalized communities. I want to be a voice for those who are silenced, especially young LGBTQ+ individuals who feel abandoned or invalidated by their families. Through education, I hope to work in spaces that promote inclusivity, equality, and social justice—whether through advocacy, policy, education, or community outreach. I want to help create environments where people are not forced to choose between being themselves and being accepted. Receiving this scholarship would significantly alleviate the financial stress that currently threatens my ability to pursue higher education. Without family financial support, every expense from tuition to books becomes a barrier. This scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies rather than constant financial survival. More importantly, it would represent belief belief in my potential, my resilience, and my commitment to making a difference. As an LGBTQ+ individual, I have learned that progress often begins with courage. I carry my experiences with me not as limitations, but as motivation. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue forward not only for myself, but for the countless others who deserve a future rooted in acceptance, dignity, and equality.

Growing up as an LGBTQ+ individual has shaped my identity in ways that are both painful and empowering. Coming out as bisexual was not a single moment, but a series of realizations followed by consequences I was not prepared for. Members of my extended family stopped speaking to me altogether, choosing distance over understanding. Words meant to dismiss my identity, calling it “just a phase,” came from people I loved, including my own sister. That rejection left lasting scars, and for a long time, it made me question my worth and whether I truly belonged anywhere. Although some family members eventually came around, the relationships were never fully repaired. Even now, there is an emotional distance that remains. Learning to live with that reality forced me to mature quickly. I had to build my own sense of belonging and find strength within myself when the support I expected from family was no longer there. Being LGBTQ+ taught me resilience, self-advocacy, and empathy for others who feel unseen or unheard. One of the hardest realities I face is that I will receive no financial support from my parents for my education. This is not only a financial burden, but an emotional one, knowing that I must navigate higher education completely on my own. Despite this, I refuse to let rejection define my future. Instead, it fuels my determination to succeed and create change. My aspiration for higher education is not only to earn a degree, but to gain the knowledge and tools needed to advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and support marginalized communities. I want to be a voice for those who are silenced, especially young LGBTQ+ individuals who feel abandoned or invalidated by their families. Through education, I hope to work in spaces that promote inclusivity, equality, and social justice, whether through advocacy, policy, education, or community outreach. I want to help create environments where people are not forced to choose between being themselves and being accepted. Receiving this scholarship would significantly alleviate the financial stress that currently threatens my ability to pursue higher education. Without family financial support, every expense from tuition to books becomes a barrier. This scholarship would allow me to focus on my studies rather than constant financial survival. More importantly, it would represent belief in my potential, my resilience, and my commitment to making a difference. As an LGBTQ+ individual, I have learned that progress often begins with courage. I carry my experiences with me not as limitations, but as motivation. With the support of this scholarship, I will continue forward not only for myself, but for the countless others who deserve a future rooted in acceptance, dignity, and equality.

Some teachers teach lessons. Others change lives. Ms. Curtis is the kind of teacher whose impact stays with you long after you leave her classroom. She didn’t just help me understand math, she helped me understand myself, rediscover my love for learning, and feel supported during some of the most overwhelming moments of my life. From the moment I met her as my class para freshman year to when she took over halfway through my geometry class sophomore year, Ms. Curtis saw something in me that many others had missed. My brain moves quickly, especially when it comes to math, and instead of letting that turn into boredom or frustration, she challenged me. She constantly pushed me to think deeper, try harder problems, and stay engaged. Because of her, I wasn’t just completing assignments, and I was learning, growing, and enjoying school again. She reminded me what it felt like to be excited to walk into a classroom, and she played a major role in helping me fall back in love with school. What made Ms. Curtis truly special, though, was not just her teaching style, but her heart. She always had a listening ear when other classes didn’t make sense or when I felt overwhelmed and frustrated. She never rushed me, dismissed my concerns, or made me feel like I was asking too much. Instead, she listened with patience and understanding, making me feel heard and valued. In a school environment where it’s easy to feel like just another student, Ms. Curtis made me feel important. Outside of academics, Ms. Curtis created something even more meaningful a safe space. There were days when family situations felt heavy and emotions became too much to carry. On those days, Ms. Curtis understood that sometimes learning has to pause so a student can breathe. She kept her classroom open during lunch so that I, along with other students, could step away from the noise and chaos and have a quiet moment. That simple act of kindness meant more than she probably realized. It gave me peace, comfort, and a sense of safety during moments when I desperately needed it. Because of Ms. Curtis, I learned that school can be a place of understanding, not pressure. She taught me that my fast-moving mind is not something to hide, but something to embrace. Her encouragement helped rebuild my confidence, not only in math, but in myself. She showed me that success isn’t just measured by grades, but by growth, resilience, and feeling supported. Ms. Curtis has had a lasting impact on my life. Her belief in me, her willingness to challenge me, and her compassion during difficult moments shaped the student and person I am today. I will always be grateful for the way she made me feel seen, understood, and capable. Teachers like Ms. Curtis don’t just teach , they leave a permanent mark on the hearts of their students, and she has certainly left one on mine. She showed me to always pick kindness.